Obituary of Thomas J. Purcell

TROY –

Thomas J. Purcell, 94, of Troy, entered into eternal life peacefully on Friday, June 21, 2024 with his devoted nephew by his side.

The son of the late William F. and Mae E. (Brennan) Purcell, Thomas was born on July 19, 1929 in Troy. He was raised and resided his entire life in Troy.

Thomas received his education from P.S. No. 1 and also, Catholic Central High School (class of 1947). Thomas enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951. During his tenure he was stationed in Japan and was an airplane mechanic. He served faithfully, receiving an honorable discharge in 1955 and returned to Troy.

After he returned home, Thomas resumed employment with the Troy Record. He began with the newspaper company in childhood, delivering newspapers when they cost only one cent. As an adult he served the company as a photo engraver and eventually retired from the Troy Record following many years of service.

A devout Catholic, Thomas and his late wife Helen, were communicants of St. Joseph’s Church in South Troy. A genuine Tiffany Co. stained glass window in the church bears their name in honor of their contribution. Mr. Purcell was an honorary life member of the Graphic Communications International Union for Photo Engravers.

Thomas and Helen loved to travel and did so extensively during their marriage. Some destinations include: Ireland, Bermuda, Alaska and Maine.

Thomas married the former Helen Conway on October 29, 1978 and their union lasted until her passing 10 years ago on June 29, 2014.

Survivors include three cherished nephews: Robert, Gary and Bryan Dufresne, nieces: Mary, Lynn Ann, Cathy, Patricia, JoAnn and nephew John. Several great nieces and nephews and cousins also survive. In addition, Thomas is also survived by one sister-in-law, Dorothy Purcell and many relatives and in-laws within the Conway Family.

In addition to his parents, and cherished wife, Thomas was predeceased by two siblings: Mary T. Dufresne and William T. Purcell.

Relatives and Friends are invited to call from 11AM to 1PM on Friday, June 28, 2024 in the Riverview Funeral Home, 218 2nd Avenue (corner of 104th Street) Troy, NY 12180, thence to: St. Joseph’s Church on the corner of Third & Jackson Streets, South Troy, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2PM. Interment with Military Honors will follow the mass in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in South Troy. All are welcomed.

If you wish to remember Thomas in a special way, please consider a contribution in his name to: St. Joseph’s Church, 416 3rd St, Troy, NY 12180. This is what he would have wanted, to keep up with the demands of the church’s restoration and ongoing expenses.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Thomas’ Family, online at: TheRiverviewFuneralHome.com

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Thomas J. Purcell

1929 - 2024

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Obituary of Thomas J. Purcell

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